The problem
Vehicle description: step vans equipped with spicer 6,000 or 8,000 lb. Front steer axles. The tie rod end can pull outboard and separate from the tie rod tube due to improper thread engagement between the male tie rod end and the female tube.
The risk
Separation of the tie rod end could result in loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
The fix
Dealers will replace the complete tie rod assembly.
Contacts
Owner notification is expected to begin during may 1999. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact freightliner at 1-800-547-0712 or spicer at 1-219-483-7174. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Freightliner dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 99V033003.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.